Blown center console gauges circuit board ,HELP

[gunpowder44820]

Nothing worse than a electrical problem. Here goes, My amp meter hasn't worked since I owner car, had to do some work on a.c. vacuum switch so I thought now's the time to check why amp gauge was not working, I had a blown circuit board, bought new gauge and board, put it all in and blew the board again. Not that's about a $80 pop every time on the board. I did notice the amp gauge has its own set of 3 wires that plug directly into the back of gauge, the other gauges are all in the main harness. Obviously I have a short somewhere, how do I trace the 3 wires to their origin? Also now none of the gauges work now. I ordered another board, before I install what can I do to find the problem. Thanks in advance

 

[Antz81]

What year is your car?

 

[gunpowder44820]

Sorry 1982

 

[Antz81]

Sorry 1982

There's something strange here. There is no amp meter on an 82. From you description it sounds like it is where you should have an oil temperature gauge. (Or a clock as there is connections for either)